Sartre in 90 Minutes : Book Review

"Sartre in 90 Minutes" by Paul Strathern provides a concise and engaging account of the life, philosophy, and works of Jean-Paul Sartre, one of the most influential philosophers of the 20th century. In just 90 minutes of reading time, Strathern presents a clear and accessible overview of Sartre's intellectual journey.

The book begins by delving into Sartre's formative years and the major events that shaped his worldview. Strathern explores how Sartre's encounters with German philosophy and his experiences in World War II influenced the development of his existentialist philosophy, for which he is most celebrated.

What sets this book apart is Strathern's ability to make complex philosophical concepts understandable to a wide audience. He avoids overwhelming readers with technical jargon, while still providing enough depth for readers to grasp the essence of Sartre's philosophy. Strathern also includes anecdotes and examples to illustrate the real-life implications of Sartre's ideas, making his work relatable and relevant.

The author covers Sartre's key ideas, such as the concept of "existence precedes essence" and the notion of absolute freedom. Strathern explores Sartre's theories on human existence, responsibility, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe. He also delves into Sartre's controversial political beliefs, including his involvement with Marxism and his refusal of the Nobel Prize in literature.

Overall, "Sartre in 90 Minutes" is an excellent introduction to the life and work of Jean-Paul Sartre. Strathern's concise and engaging writing style makes this book a valuable resource for those new to Sartre's philosophy, as well as for those seeking a refresher. Whether read in 90 minutes or at a leisurely pace, the book offers an insightful glimpse into the mind of a philosopher whose ideas continue to resonate today.

What are readers saying?

The book "Sartre in 90 Minutes" by Paul Strathern has received generally positive reviews, with readers praising the author's concise and engaging introduction to the philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre. Strathern's writing style is frequently commended for its ability to condense complex philosophical concepts into a short book that can be read in just 90 minutes. Readers appreciate his clear and accessible explanations, which allow them to grasp the key ideas of Sartre's philosophy without feeling overwhelmed by technical jargon.

Many reviewers highlight the brevity of the book as one of its greatest strengths. They find it to be an excellent starting point for those new to Sartre's works, as Strathern presents the philosopher's ideas in a straightforward manner. This makes them easily digestible for readers who may not have a background in philosophy.

The inclusion of biographical details about Sartre is also well-received by readers, as it helps them understand the philosopher's ideas within the context of his life. Strathern's ability to integrate Sartre's personal experiences and relationships into the discussion further enhances readers' understanding and engagement with the subject matter.

Some reviewers mention that while the book offers a solid overview of Sartre's philosophy, it does not delve too deeply into the complexities of his ideas. However, this is viewed positively by some readers, as they see the book as a stepping stone towards further exploration of Sartre's works.

In conclusion, the reviews for "Sartre in 90 Minutes" reflect a positive reception of Paul Strathern's ability to present Jean-Paul Sartre's philosophy in a concise and accessible manner. The book is praised for serving as an excellent introduction to Sartre's ideas and providing readers with a solid foundation for further exploration.

philosophylover existentialism Sartre